Thursday, November 29, 2007

A couple of exciting new things are about to be made available from the Qumran Visualization Project. Here are a few details:

The Virtual Qumran Model on Your DesktopThe Qumran Visualization Project is preparing to launch the latest version of its digital reconstruction of Qumran. In addition, VirtualQumran.com will make this latest version of the Virtual Qumran model available to the public for download to your computer. You’ll be able to navigate the reconstructed settlement from the comfort of your own home, office, or classroom. Please check back after Jan. 1, 2008 to download the Virtual Qumran model and navigation software.

Ancient Qumran: A Virtual Reality Tour (the movie)The digital movie Ancient Qumran: A Virtual Reality Tour is nearing completion. The original, unpublished script is almost complete, and the high-definition graphics are re-rendered and optimized for viewing in HD. The movie is based upon the UCLA Qumran Visualization Project’s digital model of Qumran, and takes the viewer on a tour of the reconstructed settlement of Khirbet Qumran. It offers a history of the archaeological excavation of the site and the surrounding caves, and discusses the different theories concerning the nature and expansion of Qumran. This film is an updated and expanded version of the live-narration movie playing at the San Diego Natural History Museum as a part of their exhibition of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Stay tuned for information about the Spring 2008 release date and availability.

Wednesday, November 7, 2007

An offprint of "The Qumran Excavations 1993-2004: Preliminary Report" by Yitzhak Magen and Yuval Peleg is now available for download on the IAA website in .pdf format. Magen and Peleg provide an excellent description of their renewed excavations at Qumran. Everyone is encouraged to read the report, as it is sure to add to the discussion concerning the archaeology of Qumran.